Brownback Says Obama Still Committed To NBAF

Governor Sam Brownback says members of the president's administration continue to support the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, which is slated to be built in Manhattan.

That comes after President Obama chose not to add funding for the lab's construction in his 2013 budget proposal. Brownback says he spoke with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano this week about the issue.

Brownback says one concern is the projected cost for the lab, which has grown to more than $650 million.

"Obviously the federal government budget is under significant pressure," Brownback said. "They're trying to get that cost contained and held back, so they want to review to see what they can do about scope that could address some of the cost."

In his budget, President Obama said the $50 million appropriated by Congress so far is not enough to start construction of the lab. Brownback says the state is looking at alternatives for funding the project.